Gonzalez turns down trade to Expos

ARLINGTON, Texas, June 27 (UPI) -- Texas Rangers slugger Juan Gonzalez on Friday had vetoed a trade that would have sent him to the Montreal Expos.

Gonzalez informed the Rangers that he decided to exercise the no-trade clause in his contract.

"During my career, I've learned a lot," he said. "I signed with Texas as a kid. Texas is a very special place to me."

Gonzalez's decision came two days after he met with Expos General Manager Omar Minaya, who flew to Texas in an attempt to convince the two-time American League Most Valuable Player to accept the trade.

The 33-year-old slugger is slated to make $12 million this season and is hitting .286 with 18 home runs and 50 RBI in 65 games.

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